Tour to Kartchner Caverns State Park Tucson - The Amazing Living Cave with a Fairly New History of Discovery

If you are looking to visit some exceptional places while you are staying in Tucson, do not miss out on a tour to the Kartchner Caverns, which is considered to be one of the most unique state parks in the world.

Located about 50 miles south of the city of Tucson, close to Benson in Arizona, the natural park is famous for its splendid limestone cave formations. Although the caverns were discovered accidentally in the 1970s, it was kept a secret and was accessed mainly by anthropologists and researchers. However, it was opened to public only in 1999. Even since, it has been regarded as one of the top ten tourist destinations in the United States.

Tourists can undertake cave tours that are scheduled every half an hour. These tours are ½ mile long and are guided by a tour ranger. Inside the caves, you can experience a different world, where darkness prevails and the echo of the dripping water resonating on the limestone walls - all these create a strange atmosphere. You can also see a number of native animals, especially deer in the park. There is also a special center for bats.

There is a huge discovery center that features unique collection of exhibits, limestone and other mineral displays as well as interactive activities, a gift shop and a resource center. You will also come across a picnic area, a vending ground an amphitheater, hiking trails, a camping ground and a hummingbird garden. The Kartchner Caverns State Park is open daily from 7:30 am until 6:00 pm and is closed only on Christmas Day.